Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation Division
It was an early morning for Nancy Kirsh and her college-aged son, Andrew Kirsh, but the pair didn’t mind given their eventual destination and the full day of adventure ahead.
“We left at 6 a.m.,” Nancy said, referring to leaving their home in Rochester Hills one humid Wednesday earlier this summer and heading to Interlochen State Park, about a 3 ½-hour drive north. “And although we are absolutely not morning people, it was worth the drive.”
A little over a year after sustaining an injury that resulted in Andrew, 22, needing to use a wheelchair, remaining active and spending time outdoors – in this case, as part of DiversAbility Day held at Interlochen State Park – have become top family priorities.
“We’re trying to get back to doing the things that we love,” Nancy said. “I’m signing him up for everything.”
Andrew added, “It’s really important to get outside.”
Prior to his injury in April 2024, Andrew always enjoyed a variety of outdoor pursuits, including kayaking with his dad.
Thanks to events like DiversAbility Day – a collaboration between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and community organizations – Andrew is experiencing numerous outdoor activities that are accessible to people who use a wheelchair and live with disabilities.
Last fall, for example, he took part in Disability Dune Day, an annual event that takes place this year from 2-7 p.m., Sept. 10 at Silver Lake State Park in Oceana County.
“I’ve actually gotten out even more post-injury,” said Andrew as he waited with his mom near the park’s Duck Lake dock for an accessible pontoon ride to begin.
First DiversAbility Day at Interlochen State Park
This was the first time Interlochen State Park played host, along with Wheels in Motion and other community partners. Wheels in Motion is a Michigan-based nonprofit dedicated to creating adaptive recreation events for individuals with physical disabilities.
Several dozen people signed up for the mid-July event, which featured “a free day of adaptive adventure.” This included kayaking, fishing, cycling, pontoon rides and more.
“This event helps showcase the new opportunities for people to be able to come out and enjoy our state parks,” said Christopher Bush, park supervisor at Interlochen State Park in Grand Traverse County. “I’d like to thank the great partners that helped with the DiversAbility Day by providing outdoor opportunities. We are glad to be able to host such a meaningful event.”
Making the outdoors accessible
The state’s Accessibility Advisory Council has helped bring these kinds of events to life, said Michelle O’Kelly, fund and resource developer for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. The council consists of private citizens, appointed by the DNR director, who demonstrate a clear interest in improving accessibility to Michigan’s natural resources.
The council provides guidance to help the DNR develop, manage and plan opportunities for those of all abilities to enjoy Michigan’s natural resources. The council also strives to educate citizens on the importance of accessibility and to involve citizens in the planning and development of facilities and programs that are accessible to all users.
‘Nature is healing’
Interlochen State Park also hosts an adaptive kayak program throughout the summer, thanks to the Lighthouse Neurological Rehabilitation Center. There is no cost for these events and all equipment is provided. (A Recreation Passport is required to enter the park).
Therapists and team members from Lighthouse Neurological Rehabilitation Center were among the community partners attending Interlochen State Park’s inaugural DiversAbility Day in July.
Feedback from those who chose to enjoy paddling with their adaptive kayaks is incredibly rewarding to hear, said Jessica Stark, a recreational therapist who also serves on the state’s Accessibility Advisory Council.
“‘This is freedom,’” Stark said that one woman, who uses a wheelchair following a spinal cord injury, shared with the therapy team. “(Paddling) was so freeing for her.”
Along with riding the pontoon boat across Duck Lake, Andrew Kirsh also enjoyed using the hand cycle bike that was available to DiversAbility Day participants.
“It was a good cardio workout,” he said.
Just before boarding the pontoon with her son, Nancy Kirsh said, “I can’t tell you how valuable this is. It’s been a long road to get to where he is now. I believe this is healing. Nature is healing.”
Learn more about accessible recreation opportunities at state parks, campgrounds, boating access sites, state game areas, trails and more at Michigan.gov/DNRAccessibility.